Hey guys, I have a few questions, and I am afraid the first might be beating a dead horse. It has to do with oil. I am changing the front fork oil (I am probably going to replace all o-rings, etc as I have them on hand). The service manual calls for Type E fork oil, but I am considering stiffing the ride a bit as I am a bigger guy and the front end tends to dive even in light braking situations. Can any of you shed some light on what weight is equivalent to Type E?

The second question I have is in regards to the carb. I am looking for some parts..this is a long shot as I think they are 'obsolete' but maybe you guys have a good place to check.

Part No: 27144-83 - Choke Lever Assy
Part No: 27325-83 - Choke Wire Bracket

The third question has to do with my front brake line. I noticed I have a little crack at one of the bends. I was looking for replacement parts and it looks like most of them are braided lines? I am worried that they will be too loose and flap as I am riding, but I don't want to zip tie them to the handle bars or anything like that. It isn't making a ton of sense to me because the bike isn't sitting in front of me. Any suggestions on a good replacement part and/or suggestions on how you installed non-OEM brake lines?

If you have any insight for any of the questions it will be greatly appreciated! Thanks.

 

I have Bel-Ray 20wt fork oil in my '83, along with Progressive fork springs. If you want OEM, look on eBay for front brake lines. You might even be able to still get one from Harley. As far as the choke parts go, maybe eBay or a swap meet.

 

I have always run 15W fork oil in all my bikes [Sportster, Viragos, Shadows, IronHeads].

The braided brake lines are the best. Buy a well known brand like Russell Universal Braided Stainless Steel Brake Lines.

Best to replace the carb rather than try to find those parts. The 1983-on Keihin butterfly carbs [up to 1988 are all about the same; later ones have a VOES port which will be useful if you install a modern electronic ignition] are often on eBay $50 to $75 should get one. Keep yours for spare parts. Or upgrade to a Mikuni VM38-9, or a CV from 1990 up to 2003.

 

Mick, the VOES goes back to '82 or '83. The OEM electronic ignition in my '83 has one, still works fine.